Friday, January 7, 2011

Hillsides, Pasadena to hold gala Feb. 26

Hillsides, Pasadena children’s charity, announces La Canada resident Donna Ford, also a Hillsides’ board member, as its chair of the annual benefit "Diamonds are Forever." The event will take place in a private club in downtown Los Angeles on February 26, 2011.

“This theme is consistent with Hillsides’ mission, which is to serve children and families that, just like diamonds in the rough, needs to be unearthed, handled with care and made to shine,” said Ford, adding that the event will be action-packed with many unique and exceptional auction items as well as stylish guests “a la James Bond.”

When Ford was asked to serve as the charity’s benefit chair, the thought of choosing a theme seemed daunting, however, ”when I thought of the children who are served by Hillsides, diamonds immediately came to mind. Diamonds are the strongest, most beautiful and sought after stones in the world.”

Diamonds come in many shapes, sizes and colors, representing not only the diversity of the population Hillsides serves, but also, the range of services provided by the charity. Like the process off unveiling the brilliant diamond and its appreciated value, the uncut and unpolished gem has to be handled by specialists who are able to reveal the true jewel that lies beneath.

“For the past 97 years, Hillsides’ specialists include qualified professionals and loving child care workers that bring out the best in the children they serve by creating safe environments for them to thrive and shine, and supporting vulnerable families. The services provided at Hillsides provide lifelong benefits to those who are touched by its incredibly devoted staff and volunteers,” said Ford. “I am asking you to help us uncover the true beauty and value in every jewel of a child we serve. To those of you who have supported us in the past, I thank you, once again, and ask for your continued support this year.”

Major sponsors for the benefit include Bill and Susan Noce,Rusnak Automotive Group, Marge and Sherm Telleen, Western Asset Management, Drake General Contractors, Linda and Stephen Gill, Jacob and Clara Maarse-Jacob Maarse Floral Design, David and Anita Sniezko, among others.

“We are so appreciative to our donors who consistently support the work we do to help restore hope to the children and families,” said Joseph Costa, Hillsides chief executive officer. “The demand for services is great so I encourage everyone to support our event and inquire about how you can help bring some brilliance into the lives of those we serve.”

The children’s charity’s annual benefit will raise funds for its programs and services for Hillsides’ foster care children and youth at risk as well as vulnerable families living in Los Angeles County.

For the 19th consecutive year, Fritz Coleman, weathercaster for KNBC-4 and honorary chairman of the benefit, will serve as master of ceremonies and celebrity auctioneer.

Other event highlights include children's wishing well, live auction, silent auction and opportunity drawings, all of which will be complemented by entertainment throughout the evening.

To learn more about this event and auction items, visit www.Hillsides.org. Individuals wishing to reserve a ticket at $250 can call 323-255-9005 or visit www.Hillsides.org. Sponsorships are also available.

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